What is the United Way Extension?

The United Way Extension is a standardized add-on in Bonterra’s CyberGrants platform that facilitates donor engagement with United Way organizations during the giving process. 

This extension equips giving programs with features that personalize the donor experience while maintaining alignment with the United Way's structure and data formats. 

Core functionality 

At its core, the United Way Extension connects a donor’s profile using their Home Zip or Work Zip [provided through the Human Resources (HR) data feed with their nearest local United Way organization. 

This connection is powered by the United Way Gift Link file, which maps ZIP codes to United Way organizations sourced directly from United Way by the customer. 

In addition to identifying the local organization, the extension also includes the following: 

United Way featured organization search portlet 

A configurable widget on the donor website that: 

• Automatically displays the closest local United Way organization. 

• Falls back to a default United Way organization if no local match is found.
• Optionally allows the donor to search for a different United Way organization. 

United Way iGuide designation selection 

Once a donor selects a United Way organization, the associated focus areas (designations) from the iGuide file appear in a single-select dropdown labeled “Designate Your Gift.” 

File and data components 

The extension requires three primary files: 

Workflow example 

1. A donor logs into their giving site and initiates a proposal using a defined proposal type. 
2. Based on their profile ZIP code, the portlet displays the nearest United Way organization.
3. If a match is not found, the system displays the default organization.
4. Donors may optionally search for and select a different United Way.
5. Once an organization is selected, the iGuide file provides the associated designations.
6. The donor selects a designation (optional), completing their gift allocation. 

Technical specifications and dependencies 

• ZIP code radius – Up to a 50-mile search radius can be defined by the customer.
• Portlet behavior – Search functionality can be enabled or disabled per customer preference.
• Equal match distribution – Match funds (e.g., for payroll donations) are split evenly across all selected United Way organizations.
• Data requirements – All United Way data files must be clean and free of duplicates prior to submission to CyberGrants. 

This extension leverages a structured, standardized design for fast implementation and robust performance when used in accordance with Bonterra's best practices. 

What else do you need help with?

• How do I implement the United Way Extension?

Not what you're looking for? Navigate to United Way Extension Overview

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